Our summer intergenerational program “Weaving Our Stories” was a gratifying experience for all involved. Teaching Artists Marcie Wolf-Hubbard (art) and Candace Wolf (storytelling) led four sessions with older adults and children aged 7-15 at Holly Hall Apartments, a new center partner, in Silver Spring, MD. The program is a partnership with Housing Opportunities Commission of Montgomery County. Holly Hall provides subsidized housing for older adults, and the youth will were bused in from a nearby family facility, where they are part of a group called Magruder’s Discovery.
At the beginning of each session, the participants spent time getting to know one another. Discussion topics included things that are worth waiting for; the history behind their names; what they like best about their current age; what courage means; times of change and how they coped; and the special, most unforgettable days in their lives. The time spent sharing personal stories flowed into art activities designed to continue the “getting to know you” process. Younger and older participants created colorful nametags for one another, illustrated stories from the other’s life, created collages made from images of group members, and drew portraits of a partner. The series culminated with a final celebration on Wednesday, July 31, where their artwork was displayed for public viewing.
Members of the group expressed their feelings about the experience:
“I liked interacting with the kids. Some children don’t have grandparents and it is good for them.”
– Sarah, Senior participant
“It’s important to take time for yourself and learn something new. To not think about your health issues, or sit alone in your apartment”
– Phyllis, Senior participant
“I liked that they were multicultural like us, and spoke different languages.”
– Rufael, Youth participant
“I liked telling our stories, and drawing our partner’s stories”
– Bizet, Youth participant
The youth, who continue take part in an after-school program in their neighborhood during the school year, have already planned several return trips to visit their friends at Holly Hall. We hope the relationship will continue for a long time.
Please enjoy the following video, which we hope conveys the spirit of the sessions.